"Rhino" charges into Yulman Theater May 28-31

The Department of Theater and Dance will perform Eugéne Ionesco’s “Rhino,” the story of a small town in France where the inhabitants are transformed into rhinoceroses, May 28 to June 1 in Yulman Theater.

Often considered a response to the rise of Communism, Fascism and Nazism before World War II, “Rhino” addresses themes such as conformity and mass movements.

“This show is about how people conform to what’s considered normal, even if it's really weird. In this case, normal is considered is turning into a rhino,” said Sarang Sharma ’15, who is playing The Gentleman.

“A modern audience can relate to Rhino. We all understand what conformity looks like and what it entails, especially when we have technology that increases our self-awareness,” said Robyn Belt ’14, who plays The Logician.

Adapted and directed by William Finlay, department chair, Rhino will be performed in the round.

“Performing in the round is difficult, but really cool,” said Sharma. “The audience will surround the stage, so that they are basically looking into the set as if it is a fishbowl.”